Why haven’t I blogged? Because I haven’t worked out since prior to ACDF surgery. I’m. Going. Out. Of. My. Mind.

The only activity that is allowed is walking, so I’ve been doing much of that, and pain-free, I might add.

Today was my first post-op followup. And, as was to be expected, it was a success.

Here are my X-rays:

Notice the two dots on the left X-ray. The doctor told me that the pins were inserted so that they could see them on an X-ray. I honestly don’t know if he was kidding, but I laughed nonetheless. Notice the two sideways “V”s on the X-ray to the right. Yup, I’m now bionic!

I am healing nicely, and the doctor was very pleased with my progress thus far.

Doctor: Tell me about what’s happened since your surgery. Have you experienced any pain?Me: No. I took Oxycontin for the first two days and I’ve taken Tylenol two or three times at the most.Doctor: You only took Oxycontin for two days? Most patients are on Oxycontin for two or three months, so that’s good.

I can’t imagine taking Oxycontin for a week let alone months. Yup, I have control issues.

I am forbidden from doing an upper body movements until mid-February. I’m also discouraged from running until mid-February. I am allowed to complete bodyweight squats and lunges and to use stationary bike or elliptical machine. I’m not a fan of the stationary bike or elliptical machine. I’m going to be doing a tremendous amount of walking.

I am no longer required to wear that neck brace when I’m home, and am only truly required to wear it when I drive or am a passenger in a car or when there’s a chance that I might be jostled. I didn’t wear this evening whilst coaching. It felt wonderful to not be constrained.

Don’t jostle me. I mean it.

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I was contacted by a gentleman who informed me that he continues to hear wonderful things about the training that I developed and delivered for Campbell Alliance (my former employer). I agreed to a brief conversation, which took place today. We talked and, well, I’m considering offering contractual training. And I’m kinda sorta excited about maybe possibly developing and delivering training.